Ductless mini split systems can offer significant advantages in energy efficiency and comfort over traditional forced-air systems. However, reaping those benefits over the average 12- to 15-year lifespan of those systems requires that they be maintained regularly throughout that lifespan. Ductless mini split maintenance should be performed at least once a year by a qualified HVAC technician to ensure maximum system efficiency and reliability.

Ductless mini split maintenance tasks that you can expect your HVAC professional to perform during an annual tune-up include:

• Maintenance of IAQ components – Many ductless mini spit systems include specialized indoor air quality, or IAQ, equipment that must be removed and cleaned periodically.
• Evaporator coil inspection and cleaning – The indoor coil of your indoor air handler (or air handlers if your system has two or more) should be inspected at every maintenance call and cleaned at least every other year.
• Fan wheel and blower assembly maintenance – These components should be checked for proper balance and reliable function.
• Condensing unit maintenance – For the outdoor unit of your ductless mini split, maintenance should include checking refrigerant levels and inspecting refrigerant lines and insulation wraps, as well as checking to make sure that the unit is solidly mounted to its base. Outdoor coils should be checked for cleanliness and cleaned if necessary, and the unit should be tested for proper operation.

Once professional ductless mini split maintenance is completed, simple DIY tasks can help keep your system in shape. Among these are:

• Outdoor unit checks – The condensing unit must be kept clear of tall weeds, shrubbery and debris, such as grass clippings or leaves, allowing for proper airflow.
• Filter maintenance – Air handler filters should be checked for cleanliness once a month and replaced or cleaned as per manufacturer’s instructions (or easier still, when they appear dirty). A dirty filter can reduce energy efficiency and excessively wear vital system components.

If you need more information on ductless mini split maintenance or would like to schedule a service call, please contact us at Powers Heating & Air. We’ve been keeping our customers in the Peachtree City area comfortable since 2001.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Peachtree City, Georgia and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

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